Before: The Nelsons were committed to remodeling right, so when the project opened their eyes to the structural problems in their home, they did what it took to make it structurally sound and safe in an earthquake.

Daniel Barton, Renovation Design Group

Last time we introduced you to Bob and Char Nelsons remodeled 1927 Tudor-style home in the Harvard-Yale area of Salt Lake City. The remodel stayed within the floor plan of the historic home and was initially focused on energy efficiency and updating the exterior facade.

The exterior of the home was in rocky shape: The stucco was cracked and peeling, and the half timbers had fallen off sections of the home. The home was an unreinforced masonry structure, making it vulnerable to earthquake damage. This is a real concern in Utah where experts say a serious earthquake is not a matter of if, but when. Even relatively small levels of ground shaking can cause significant damage in an unreinforced masonry structure, while moderate to large earthquakes can make them completely or partially collapse.

This is not an uncommon scenario in older homes, especially brick homes built before 1970. It is estimated that 185,000 structures are built of unreinforced masonry in the Salt Lake region. For a typical residence, we dont think in terms of an "earthquake proof" house, but focus on creating a structure that wont entirely collapse and which will allow occupants to escape with minimal damage or injury. The house may indeed be a total loss, but the people inside wont.

Because the Nelsons were already committed to remodeling and to remodeling right they knew they would do whatever it would take to make their home as structurally sound as possible. A structural engineer joined the team and worked with the architect and contractor to reinforce the foundation. Basically, the walls were not even tied to the foundation, so this correction was made.

Another major potential damage zone was their interior chimney. The roof beam was actually tied to the unreinforced masonry chimney. These types of chimneys are notorious for collapsing in an earthquake and, in this case, would have taken down the whole house with it. They rebuilt the interior chimney and redesigned the structure to properly support the roof with 6-by-6 posts. Now the house is solid from the roof beam to the foundation.

The intent of such a structural upgrade is to strengthen each part of the house to resist lateral (sideways or twisting) forces. This is done by providing connections to transfer these forces from one element to another, moving them down to the ground where they can dissipate. Horizontal forces on chimneys must be transferred to bracing and the roof structure. The forces on the roof must be transferred to the walls, and the walls also receive the forces from ceilings and floors. Forces in the walls must be transferred to the foundation and, finally, back into the ground. Similar force transfers must happen between almost every building part. If any part is weak or poorly connected, it may fail and other members or connections must pick up the extra load.

Since the walls take forces from several other building parts, certain walls need to be strengthened. These are known as "shear walls," since they are meant to absorb a greater share of the lateral or shear forces. Each building ideally needs two shear walls that run perpendicular to each other. Strengthening these walls involves removing the gypsum board or plaster and installing plywood panels over the studs with a required pattern of nailing. The sheetrock or plaster is replaced, so in the end these walls do not look any different from any other wall. A structural engineer can analyze your home to determine which walls will function best as shear walls.

Remember, earthquake forces exploit any weak or damaged "link." A thorough investigation and understanding of the structure of a house is required to identify, and then strengthen, these weak links.

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Remodeling for seismic upgrades

NIH-funded study reveals protein, fatty molecules and cellular energy work together during endocytosis

Cells ingest proteins and engulf bacteria by a gymnastic, shape-shifting process called endocytosis. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health revealed how a key protein, dynamin, drives the action.

Endocytosis lets cells absorb nutrients, import growth factors, prevent infections and accomplish many other vital tasks. Yet, despite decades of research, scientists don't fully understand this membrane remodeling process. New research reveals, on the real-life scale of nanometers, how individual molecules work together during a single act of endocytosis.

"Weve discovered new details about a basic process used in all sorts of ways by every cell in the body," said co-author Joshua Zimmerberg, M.D., Ph.D., head of the Program in Physical Biology at the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), where the research was conducted. "Its the culmination of a 30-year journey."

The research was led by Vadim Frolov, Ph.D., a former postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Zimmerbergs lab. It appears in a Science paper co-authored by an international team of researchers in the United States, Spain, Russia and India.

In addition to funding Dr. Zimmerberg, NIH also supported the work through a grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) to co-author Sandra Schmid, Ph.D. at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Dr. Schmid is an expert on dynamin.

Scientists have known for years that dynamin plays the major role in endocytosis. After other molecules known as coat proteins pinch the cells membrane to form an inward-puckering sac, dynamin wraps, python-like, around the neck of the sac and squeezes it tightly. A jolt of energy from a molecule called GTP severs the neck, releasing a free-floating bubble, called a vesicle, inside the cell, and sealing the cells outer membrane shut. All the while, neither the cell nor the vesicle leak any of their contents.

Drs. Zimmerberg, Schmid and colleagues discovered how the cell overcomes a seemingly insurmountable energy barrier to accomplish this feat. Its not a matter of brute force, as previously suspected, but something much more zen-likemolecular cooperation.

Neck severing starts when dynamin dips slightly into the pliable cell membrane. Lipids (oily molecules) in the membrane move aside, shifting their tails to accommodate the protein. This molecular crowding stresses the membrane, further constricting the neck of the developing vesicle.

Then GTP finishes the job. But not, as you might expect, with a fatal tug of the dynamin noose. Rather the opposite: Like a yoga instructor, GTP encourages the membrane to relax, despite its extreme stress. In the middle of this state of relaxation, the vesicle suddenly pinches off.

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Membrane Remodeling: Where Yoga Meets Cell Biology

Somerville, NJ (PRWEB) April 30, 2013

Spring is in the air, interest rates are at an all time low and many homeowners continue to remodel or expand their existing homes rather than move. Somerville Aluminum, one of the leading remodeling contractors in NJ, wants homeowners to know the top five remodeling projects to help homeowners begin planning to remodel during National Home Remodeling Month.

Housing market data reveals that small, smart remodels reward homeowners with better return on investment and can help update and customize a home. These top five most common home remodeling projects can help homeowners decide on which project is right for their home.

1.Remodel the bathroom Payback on remodeling a bathroom can reach 65 percent with new fixtures, tile, toilet, vanity and lighting. Low flow toilets consume less water and can decrease the monthly water bill.

2.Remodel the kitchen A minor kitchen remodel can improve the look and utility of the space without costing a bundle, and yields a 75 percent return. Consider replacing backsplashes, cabinet fronts, countertops, and flooring. Installing low-flow faucets and energy-efficient appliances can also reduce water and energy expenses in a heavily trafficked room.

3.Replace windows and doors Updating windows can also return a solid portion of the investment (71 percent for vinyl). New, energy-efficient doors and windows also help reduce energy leakage from the home and can bring down heating and cooling bills.

4.Repair property damage Property damage is a common but unfortunate occurrence. Seize misfortune as an opportunity to customize and upgrade the home. Homeowners already being inconvenienced with major home repairs should take that time to plan and incorporate home remodeling that may have been put off in the past.

5.Whole house remodeling Repairs and replacements of old components and the desire for upgraded amenities were cited as the top reasons for customers to hire a remodeler. Homeowners should evaluate the use of the entire home to see if it fits their needs. Repurposing spaces to fit their families and making more efficient use of their homes square footage and equity should be considered, rather than moving to a new home and mortgage.

Smart remodeling projects for improving the home can make the home more comfortable for a family's lifestyle.

To honor and celebrate National Home Remodeling Month, Somerville Aluminum continues its Triple Play promotion, with special savings on outdoor living spaces including decking, awnings and sunrooms during April and May.

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Central New Jersey’s Largest Home Remodeling Company Celebrates National Home Remodeling Month

The view of the the Jefferson High School cafeteria in Cedar Rapids through a hole in the wall created at a groundbreaking for a remodel of the cafeteria that took place earlier in the day. (Kaitlyn Bernauer/The Gazette)

Jefferson High School kicked off a remodeling project of the schools cafeteria Tuesday morning.

Most of the current cafeteria equipment is original to the building and about 20 years past its life span, school officials said. The remodeling project will involve replacing that equipment, remodeling the dining area, installing new technology, and improving the layout of the serving lines to get students through faster and more efficiently.

Students eat lunch near a hole in the wall of the cafeteria of Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids. The hole was created at a groundbreaking earlier in the day, and is the future site of a cafe as part of a remodel of the entire cafeteria. The remodel includes new heating and ventilation equipment, windows, flooring, lighting, and ceilings. The project is being funded through the School Local Option Sales Tax, and is scheduled to be completed in August. (Kaitlyn Bernauer/The Gazette)

When were crunched for time in the school day and have to get 400 kids through in ten minutes, its very challenging, so [the new cafeteria] will be good for the school and the kids will be able to truly enjoy their meal, said Suzy Ketelsen, Manager of the Food & Nutrition Department.

The cafeteria remodeling project will cost $1.5 million and is being paid for with funds from the School Local Option Sales Tax, or SILO.

Work is scheduled to be completed by the time students return in August.

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Jefferson High School remodeling cafeteria for first time in school’s history

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 30, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Perkins Restaurant & Bakery announced today a remodeling initiative that will be seeded in more than 20 corporate locations during the first half of 2013, with franchise restaurants to follow shortly thereafter. The culmination of extensive research conducted across the country, Perkins remodel package, developed by Louis+Partners Design out of Akron, Ohio includes both external and interior elements, and demonstrates Perkins long-standing commitment to continually enhance guests' overall dining experiences.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130430/CL04329)

Bob Winters, Senior Vice President of Development at Perkins comments, "Amidst a proliferation of dining choices, this contemporary, inviting refresh of Perkins, ensures that we have a relevant, differentiated presence that creates brand separation."The exterior offers a welcoming interpretation of the entry arch along with a contemporary take on size and scale of the trademark green stripe awnings. Perkins signature oval brandmark has been presented on the building as well as remote signage to strengthen overall presence. Inside, guests are drawn into a fresh, warm, comfortable environment showcasing an abundant bakery along with an array of dining zones. These dining areas offer guests different types of experiences through unique presentations in space layout, seating, lighting and graphics, creating greater daypart appeal.

Chris Nonno, a Partner at Louis+Partners Design adds, "The refreshed Perkins experience puts greater emphasis on fresh, provides a more engaging guest experience, and portrays a richer overall presentation that's in keeping with the brand's food and heritage."

About Perkins Restaurants & Bakeries:

Founded in 1958, Perkins system consists of 416 restaurants in 34 states and Canada, which includes 134 company-owned and operated restaurants and 282 franchised units. The Company also has a baked goods manufacturing division which manufactures pies, pancake mix, cookie dough, and muffin batter for in-store bakeries and third-party customers. Private investment funds managed by Wayzata Investment Partners LLC are the majority owners of Perkins & Marie Callender's Holding LLC, the parent company of the Perkins & Marie Callender's, LLC and affiliated companies. More information about Perkins franchising opportunities can be found at http://www.perkinsrestaurants.com.

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Perkins® Restaurant & Bakery Launches Remodeling Initiative

CHESTER, Pa., May 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Power Home Remodeling Group, one of the nation's largest home remodeling companies, was named to the Atlanta Journal Constitution's 2013 Top Workplaces list. The Top Workplaces program identifies leading businesses in the Atlanta metro area based upon results from employee surveys.

Employees based at Power's Atlanta, GA location completed a detailed survey about their jobs including questions related to team effectiveness, retention, employee alignment with company goals and manager effectiveness citing the company's mission, ethics and positive culture as reasons why Power should be named one of Atlanta's top employers. Power also received a Doer Award for their unique structure that gives employees a clear vision for their role in the company, with departments responsible for every aspect of the job.

"Our goal is to create a work environment that encourages employees to exceed expectations and become truly invested in the company," said Asher Raphael, Power's Chief Strategy Officer. "We are thrilled that our Atlanta employees have helped us achieve this honor. Our Doer Award truly speaks to the exceptional work ethic that our employees demonstrate every day and the home improvement experience we provide to our customers. It's reassuring to know that our employees fully embrace this critical aspect of our company culture."

Power was recently recognized on Inc. Magazine's inaugural Hire Power award ranking for adding jobs and helping to rebuild the economy, and was named to Glassdoor's "Top 25 Companies for Career Opportunities" in 2012. The company provides all employees with a variety of comprehensive customer service training programs, a mentor to ensure continuing guidance and growth, and unique compensation models and incentives that reward employees beyond traditional salaries. From monthly company-wide sales competitions with opportunities to win highly coveted prizes, including trips to overseas destinations, iPads and theater tickets, to an annual holiday vacation paid for by Power, the company provides each employee with perks to keep them engaged and motivated throughout the year.

For more information on career opportunities at Power Home Remodeling Group, please visit the company's LinkedIn page or PHRGCareers.com.

About Power Home Remodeling Group

Family-owned since 1992, Power Home Remodeling Group is the nation'ssixth largesthome remodeling company with more than 1,200 employees and $170 million in sales. Headquartered in Chester, Pa., Power provides energy-saving and environmentally friendly exterior remodeling solutions to residents across the country, including Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington, DC.AnInc. 5000company, Power has served more than 87,000 homeowners and is recognized as a home improvement leader by its two-time "Dealer of the Year" award fromWindow and Door Magazineand was named the top remodeler onProfessional Remodeler's 2012 Market Leaders Philadelphia list.For more information please visit PowerHRG.com, or follow the company on Twitter@PowerHRGand Facebook atfacebook.com/PowerHRG.

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Power Home Remodeling Group™ Named Top Workplace by Atlanta Journal Constitution

MONTCLAIR -- While the 40-year-old Montclair Plaza has gone through an interior remodeling, it is no secret that the exterior of the property needs a new look.

It's something city and mall officials have been discussing, including the restoration of the mall's east side - where the old Broadway building now sits empty - with the creation of a mixed-use development.

City officials may know the fate of any future lifestyle expansion within the next month, as they requested a workshop with the leasing company.

"The (leasing group) has shown interest in bringing change to Montclair Plaza and it appears this year they are ready to begin that process," Councilman John Dutrey said.

Cushman & Wakefield is managing Montclair Plaza for a group of lenders led by CWCapital Asset Management. Spinoso Real Estate Group based in Syracuse, N.Y. is overseeing the leasing for the east side of the mall, said Steve Lustro, director of the city's community development department.

The leasing group is considering a combination of retail and restaurants uses that would fit in the mall. There is also the possibility of tearing down the old building and creating an exterior "lifestyle" component, Lustro said.

The shopping center has four anchor tenants: Nordstrom, Macy's, J.C. Penney and Sears.

The mall's fifth anchor was Broadway, which vanished from the mall in 2007 after its parent company merged with Macy's ownership.

The last major exterior renovation at Montclair Plaza occurred in 1986, Councilman John Dutrey said.

"Montclair Plaza is an important destination to our region," Dutrey said. "My plan has always been to make sure it remains very competitive and appealing that the public wants to shop there. "

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Council to get update on Montclair Plaza remodeling effort

After nearly 25 years in the general contracting industry, there is truly no job that Design Construction & Remodeling Inc. (DCR) cant handle. Led by Brian Wilson, the firm combines fine, quality craftsmanship with honesty and integrity, and their lengthy list of services includes design, construction, commercial build-outs, project management, reports and testing, mold remediation and removal, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, painting, concrete repair and restoration, remodeling, leak detection, and fire and water damage. However, DCR truly became full-service last year when it merged with Sloan Shutter Company, a hurricane protection firm owned by Mark Sloan that has served Palm Beach County and the surrounding communities for more than two decades. In addition to their general contracting services, DCR now offers shutters; impact windows, doors, skylights and garage doors; TM windows; and is the largest Armor Screen dealer in the U.S. They provide products from several quality manufacturers, and all meet or exceed current building codes. No general contractor specializes in hurricane protection like we do, said Sloan, DCRs Senior Vice President. Several high-end insurance companies and many brokers nationwide refer clients to DCR on a regular basis for their hurricane protection needs. Sloan and Wilson, the companys Vice President, ensure that every job no matter how large or small not only meet the budget and time goals, but also exceed their clients expectations. The duo also has more than 60 years of combined experience in their fields. We specialize in home remodeling and hurricane protection, but we offer more than 30 services, including design, said Trish Faller, Operations Manager for DCR. From conception to completion, we do it all. For a full list of the companys services and products, go to http://www.DCRgroup.net. You can also visit their showroom, located at 1955 10th Ave. N. in Lake Worth. Were extremely proud of the work we do and the relationships weve established, but we constantly strive to improve in every element of our business, including quality and service, said Wilson.

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DCR Group specializes in hurricane protection, home remodeling

Provided by Networx.com

In her great essay about designing a wheelchair accessible kitchen, Dr. Rosemary Rossetti calls the kitchen "the most important room of the house". I agree. Can you imagine not being able to use your own kitchen? Fortunately, there are some great remodeling contractors, architects, and designers out there who are trained in Universal Design. If you are just getting started with the process of remodeling a kitchen to make it wheelchair accessible, this list could help you to get an overview of the components of a wheelchair accessible kitchen.

Position of food prep, cook surface, sink, and refrigerator: Although open kitchen layouts that feature islands, large built-in refrigerators, and high counter tops are fashionable, a big open kitchen layout isn't too practical for a wheelchair user. Having to wheel oneself from one side of the room, past an island, to go from the refrigerator to the sink is not ideal. When designing a kitchen for a wheelchair user, a close, L-shaped arrangement of the major kitchen features is more efficient. It's also possible to make the most of an island by pairing it with a grouping of other important kitchen features.

Wheelchair turning diameter: In order not to bump into cabinets or appliances, there should be a turning radius of five feet built into the work areas of the kitchen.

Height and structure of cabinets: In order for cabinets to be accessible, they need to be set at heights and angles that make it possible for someone in a wheelchair to reach the upper shelves with a grabber. Lazy Susans can help to make upper cabinets more accessible. In lower cabinets, installing rolling drawers inside can allow a wheelchair user to reach items that are in the lowest part of the cabinets. Little drawer pulls won't do it; in a wheelchair-accessible kitchen, you need to install larger, more ergonomic handles.

Space under the sink for a wheelchair: A major impediment for wheelchair users is sinks with unreachable faucets. In order to make a sink accessible, there needs to be clear space underneath the sink so that a wheelchair can be rolled underneath the sink. The sink should be customized to the wheelchair user. He should be able to roll his chair so that his legs can rest comfortably beneath the sink, reach inside the sink, and also comfortably reach the sink's faucets.

Counter height: While cabinets tend to occupy the space beneath counters, a low counter with nothing underneath it needs to be built into the kitchen in order for it to be wheelchair accessible. The wheelchair user should be able to wheel his chair underneath the counter as if he is sitting at a table. The counter should be low enough that it is comfortable for the wheelchair user to do such tasks as chopping vegetables.

Type of refrigerator: A side-by-side refrigerator is more wheelchair-user-friendly than a fridge with a freezer on the top or bottom. It helps to have a lazy Susan installed on the refrigerator and freezer shelves. A counter-depth refrigerator might work better than a deeper refrigerator.

For more information on designing a wheelchair accessible kitchen, visit the Universal Design Living Laboratory. It is a house that was built by contractors in Columbus under the direction of Manley Architecture Group.

Chaya Kurtz writes for Networx.com.

Originally posted here:
Kitchen remodeling to accomodate wheelchairs

Remodeling Projects Recouped!

Hello Spring! This is a great time for a remodel. From the National Association of Realtors Cost vs. Value Report here are the top 6 remodeling projects that get the best return in the RI-South, MA area.

1. Entry Door Replacement 85.6% - How easy is that! This is because it creates curl appeal and walking up to a nice entry door creates an instant welcome.

2. Deck Addition 77.3% - Do it early so that you have time to enjoy it before you sell! Doesnt everyone love a deck? A great place to sit out and joy a meal, company with friends and family or quiet time to enjoy the sun and read.

3. Garage Door Replace 75.7% - Again, easy and improve that curb appeal. Especially if the garage doors are visible from the street or when you pull up. It gives the house a nice clean, well-kept feeling to the home.

4. Minor Kitchen Remodel 75.4% - This is what I dream about, and now that I see the numbers I have an excuse too! Just some paint, new hardware and touch ups here and there can make a huge impact on a small budget.

5. Window Replacement 72.9% - This is high in this area for a few reasons. The climate of course, the fact that many homes in this area are older and therefore have older windows, and people becoming more energy conscious. They understand that the windows will help reduce heating and AC costs.

6. Attic Bedroom 72.9% - This surprised me because I didnt think there were that many houses in this area that had attics that could easily be converted to bedrooms. I do know that bedrooms increase the value of any home so this makes sense. If you can walk around in your attic maybe this will get you thinking!

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Remodeling Projects Recouped!